Within The Forest | Final Chapter

within the forest | final chapter

pairing: fairy!Chan x princess!reader word count: 1.5k words summary: the end.

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No one’s POV

The figure closed the door and dropped her hand after entering the room. Her head turned to the boys hugging each other on the bed and she sighed. The princess’s eyes widened as she realised who the figure was.

“Mom… Why did you stop me?” She shouted, her voice ringing with frustration.

Her mother immediately covered her mouth and told her to keep her voice down. His father’s office was not far from them and a shout was enough to attract unwanted attention. Nothing passed her mother’s lips, only her shoulders slumped after she took another look at the injured boys.

“You said it yourself: if no one breaks the cycle, everyone becomes a monster. If you kill your father, you become a monster. Do you think I’m going to let my daughter become one? I would be the cruellest if I did that

She looked away as she chewed on her lower lips, which were beginning to bleed. Her knuckles had turned white when she let go of the dagger. The object clattered to the floor and tears ran down her cheeks. She buried her face in her palm, her body shaking violently. She had tried to stop it.

Her mother threw the weapon away before putting her arm around the princess. The queen had gently pressed the princess’s head against her shoulder. She ran a finger through Y/N’s hair and whispered that she would be fine.

“You're crying a lot today. I’m impressed,” she giggled, rocking her like a newborn.

Soon her crying died down as she moved away from the queen and a dry giggle escaped her.

“Tell me… why did you try to kill your father?”

She lowered her head. She was embarrassed to tell her mother because it might be seen as a nonsensical excuse to express her anger. Her mother’s hand reached for hers, gripping it lightly, signalling that it was okay to tell her.

“He killed Chan, brutally. His heart was gone, and it was probably on display for everyone to see. Chan didn't do anything wrong! He used to… but he changed when I met him. Dad doesn’t deserve a happy ending when he just ended someone else’s.”

The grip on the queen’s hand tightened, “Maybe I was the reason he started hunting the fairies in the first place. Chan nearly killed me.”

“But he didn’t. Chan saved you instead and hurt himself in the process.”

Her mother lifted her chin with her index finger and looked at her tenderly.  She was speechless after her mother confirmed the matter. Chan tried to kill her

“I admit it, I hate them when I know they are the cause of our civilians losing their families. But that night, he opened my heart.”

“I saw big black wings, half burnt, and behind them was you. I thought they were the ones who killed you. I was wrong. Not every fairy is heartless. Maybe some were forced to do it for a reason.”

“After that night, I realised that I had abandoned the fairies’ side. I never thought about their story and I was ashamed of myself.”

“I tried to convince your father, but it was in vain. He is so hard to convince.”

Her thumb wiped away Y/N’s tears and placed her palm against Y/N’s cheek. “Sweetie, you’re not the reason. This cycle began in your grandfather's generation. No one has tried to stop the cycle since.”

“I hope you and Seungmin can end it once and for all.”

She nodded as she felt herself filled with determination. Her mother had placed a lot of hope in her, she wouldn’t let her down again.

“Can I go away… for a week or so? I can’t face him… knowing that he killed Chan” It felt hard to let it out, but it was for the best. The anger wouldn’t go away if she pretended nothing had happened.

The thought of having to leave her mother again in a situation like this made her legs feel like they were chained together,

“Of course. I’ll tell Seungmin and them about it. I’ll cover it up for you.”

The two… Taehyun and Beomgyu. How would they live after that?

“Thank you, mom. I appreciate it.”

She wrapped her arm around her neck, warm tears falling down her arm and into her mother’s brown hair. She hoped this was the last time she could experience this.

She slipped a folded paper under the pillow. When they woke up, at least they would know where she was.

She tucked the old journal into her pocket and blocked the door with a chair and other heavy objects she could reach. She fastened the rope around the foot of the bed and jumped out of her bedroom. Slowly, she dropped to the floor and ran off, leaving the palace behind her. From behind, she heard heavy footsteps following her.

Adrenaline rushed through her as she ran, deeper into the forest. Taking a glance behind her shoulder, she stumbled over her steps. Y/N toppled to the ground. She reached out a hand to break her fall and felt a sharp pain on her wrist. Her arms shook beneath her as she tried to get back up. Her body had long since given up after the fall.

The sound of clanging metal was very close to her ear.

They were close. A shaky breath escaped her dry lips as she reached for the scraps of dust in her pocket, pressing them into her trembling palm and praying to escape this situation. She didn’t want to suffer the consequences - not if she had to avenge Chan’s death.

If you can hear me, please take me to Chan’s siblings. I have to tell them the truth about their brother’s death

Thung, Thung!

A cloud of dust blew over them, hiding them from her view. The Stellious army stopped in their places, perplexed about where the princess was. What remained on the damp dirt were Chan’s dark feathered wings.

She unfolded her eyes and was greeted by an astonished black-haired man. His palm gripped the doorknob tightly. His gaze fell to the floor and he found the familiar dust scattered about.

“Minho!” he shouted in horror. His eyes shook uncontrollably. Another male approached, and his eyes widened.

“Flora … why are you here?” He asked sternly. His gaze pierced her, making her flinch, but she reminded herself she did not have time to be like this.

“Chan, he's dead.”

Her words were enough to make Minho’s world crumble. Minho pushed the man away and squeezed Y/N’s collar with a trembling fist.

“You are the cause of his death!”

“I am,” her deep voice reached Minho’s ear. She looked at Minho with swollen eyes.

“Then what the hell are you doing here? He almost dies saving you … What more do you want from him? Are you trying to kill us? Just stop, Princess,” Minho begged, his voice full of venom and a hint of sadness.

“No, I will avenge his death”

“W-what?” He released his grip, stepped back and shook his head. He chuckled

“Must be your way of celebrating his death. You’re kidding, Flora.”

“I’m not!”

“So what?! That will not bring him back to life! He’s dead because of you!” He yelled as he punched the wall next to him, the sound echoing through the hallway and making the other man shudder with fear.

“Minho … is it true?” The latter held Minho’s arm tightly, begging for an answer. The older man nodded meekly.

“Don’t tell Jisung and Jeongin, Hyunjin.”

Hyunjin dropped to the floor and soon a soft sniffle reached her ear. The weight of reality sank on her, trapping her in an endless situation of what-ifs.

“Hyunjin, is everything alright?” Someone asked, approaching him. It was Chan’s other siblings and they immediately calmed the crying male. One of them flickered his eyes to Minho, and there was a question in his eyes.

Minho closed his eyes as he ruffled their heads. He wondered how he should tell them the news, but everything pointed to one clear answer - their older brother had died.

“Chan is dead” He opened his eyes and watched the worried faces of his remaining siblings turn to despair.

“I will never be able to thank him, Minho,” Jisung said

“He's not returning home?” Jeongin asked and Minho shook his head again,

“Please Minho! Believe me! I will make the culprit suffer!”

“Enough, princess. Even if you did, Chan would never come home again, he would never come back to us.” He walked towards her and gave her a thin smile.

“Please go back. Thank you for telling me about this

He slammed the door before she could protest. She sighed dejectedly as she slid down and leaned her back against the door. The feeling of helplessness choked her throat as she muttered a string of "I’m sorry" under her breath.

within the forest | chapter 8

pairing: fairy!Chan x princess!reader word count: 2.2k words summary: after facing the truth, something needs to change. warning: a slight mention of death

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Sara tidied Y/N's hair and tugged a lily stem onto the braids. She gazed at the princess’s expression and a disappointed sigh sounded as she set the brush back to its place. Any excitement was invisible on her face and this wasn’t the first time she witnessed it, that alone was enough to make her uneasy about the princess. Something changed inside of Y/N.

“Y/N, the Queen always searches for you in the evening. She seems sad when you aren’t here.” Sara confessed

Y/N’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion at the statement, yet she remained silent, allowing Sara to continue. 

“I didn’t mean to be rude but you’re forgetting your family after you found Chan.” Sara watched her through the mirror, sadness lingered in her eyes when Y/N looked at her. Something inside her twitched in a bad way. The deep guilt suddenly crawled out, the feeling she never knew existed in the corner of her heart.

"You avoid the Queen, Seungmin and everyone in the palace. Everyone suddenly becomes a side character in your life when Chan appears. I know he brings happiness to you but that doesn’t mean you need to push everyone out of frame, pretending they never help you before."

“Get out, please, Sara. I will meet you in a moment” She uttered calmly but sternness was evident in her tone. Sara could tell she was holding herself back from exploding. She bowed and shut the door behind her. Y/N shut her eyes, regaining her composure, and took a big breath. Her gaze shifted to the picture beside the mirror - a portrait of her family beaming. 

Where did all of that happiness disappear? Is it her fault that her mother rarely smiles now? Was what Sara said true?  She shook her head instantly, eliminating the thought and exited the room. She headed to the dining hall where she was supposed to meet the prince.

Entering the hall, her mother swiftly held her hand and led her to the prince with a tender smile decorating her face. “Thank you for not running away this time, sweetie. I appreciate it and I’m sorry for taking your time today.”

Her eyes fell to the floor for a slight moment. She should apologised to her mother instead, not the other way around. Now, she saw the reality behind Sara’s words.

The princess and prince occupied the dimly lit library. The princess was flipping through the pages, and the storyline was vague - none of the words made sense to her preoccupied mind. Pretending to read a book was a way to avoid conversation. The latter just admired her from afar. The rumours were true after all, Stellious's only princess was exquisite, breathtaking even. It wasn’t odd if the prince had fallen for her beauty.

“Princess Flora, shall we head to the dining room? It is almost 7.30 p.m.”

“Sure” She closed the thick cover book and placed them away. The prince gestured for her to exit before him. The entire day, he couldn’t strike up any conversation with her. How can he marry someone without knowing them well? 

“Flora, I'm curious. Where did you go the other day?”

Her hands rubbed together as she walked “Out in the forest. Visiting a friend”

“Does your friend have anything to do with your unseemly behaviour today? Your smile lost its shine today,”

"I didn’t notice it”

“I want to get to know you before we go further. So, can we start as a friend?”

Her steps came to a halt. She turned at him, eyes staring directly into his. She was stunned by the request. Did she close her heart to everyone else after Chan came into her life? She was ashamed of herself after the realisation. She nodded.

“Of course. Let’s start from the beginning. I’m Y/N Flora, call me Y/N. I dislike people calling me Flora”

Seungmin chuckled “And I’m Kim Seungmin. You can call me whatever you like.” He beamed enthusiastically.

She stared at the forest through her window, hand fumbling with the black feather. Since Chan’s leaving and the unexpected meeting with Beomgyu, her head heaved with questions and worried…no, the worry had exploded into fear.

“Duncan is far away from kindness. I always see him with a dead body, the body of his victim. I’m afraid if Chan did accept Duncan’s protection, he’ll be forced into doing them again” 

“Doing what, Beomgyu?”

“Murdering, killing innocent life without solid reasons.”

The moment she heard it, she stood, frozen with widened eyes. What could surprise her more in a matter of two days? She folded her eyes as the image of Chan’s victim flashed in her mind, leaving her breathless for a moment. His smile crumbled down at the back of her mind.

“10 years, Do I want to crash down this friendship without knowing the whole picture?” Sitting in the palace, letting Beomgyu’s story devour her, wouldn’t suffice anything. With Chan’s image in her memories, she vanished from the bedroom, unaware of the infuriating eyes watching her actions behind the creaked door.

She tilted her head as she slowly pushed the door out of her way, perplexed at the slightly opened door. Setting foot in, she saw Chan duck under the fireplace and hit his head on the brick. 

“Little flora, what are you doing here late at night?”  He dusted off his worn-out trousers. He had his back on her. She felt terrified of him for the first time, not until he turned around, showing the same enchanting smile.

“Who’s Duncan?”

His face was stoic but she figured it out, he was surprised. “Just a friend, not blood-related. Let’s sit and ask everything you want.”

Taking her hand gently, he pulled her to the chair, beckoning her to sit.

“Can you explain these pictures to me then?”

She placed the pictures on the desk, observing Chan’s reaction. They were pictures of Chan with several unknown faces. She needs his honesty currently. If he were her faithful friend, he would tell her. His smile subsided, his relaxed shoulder dropped downward, and his gigantic wings engulfed his slightly quivering self. 

“There were my friends. All of them were my close friends but…”

“I had to kill them. It was either them or my siblings”

His vision turned blurry from the tears brimming on the edge of his eyes. He lowered his gaze, and the back of his hand felt wet. Words began tumbling on his tongue, and he couldn’t find a way to speak them out properly. 

“That is the condition of living under Duncan. One way or another, I was forced to kill them so my siblings are safe from the kings.”

The room suddenly filled with thousands of eyes watching them talk. She shifted her gaze to the fireplace, letting the fire crackling echo in her ear, trying to cover Chan’s low sniffling. Guilt was devouring her alive, she never thought that she would see Chan crying due to her curiosity.

“I destroy a lover, someone’s shoulder to cry on, a loving brother and sister…a friend”

The blood-crudling scream became louder in his head, and his mind ached, begging for it to stop as tears dropped to his hand more. Every attempt to move on from the past was vain, not when their scream daunting him every time someone recounts the buried memories. The tension and Chan’s sobbing were swallowing her up, she couldn’t sit still, knowing all of this happened because of her. The reason the conversation occurred was because of her. 

She shouldn’t have brought the topic up, to begin with

“It’s a sin for me to smile whereas my hand held a dead body before…”

Before he could continue, she clasped his hand with hers, a tight grip as she pulled his hand off his knee. Chan raised his face, tears staining his pale cheeks and red dominating his nose. 

“Stop… Chan. You’re torturing yourself. I shouldn’t have asked you that, it’s my fault”

His hand reached for the new bitter tear to wipe it but she beat him to it.

“Let’s stop about Duncan here and have something warm to drink. It’s freezing tonight.”  

She gave a small smile and headed to the kitchen. His eyes followed her silhouette, rising to his feet after seeing her struggling to find the items. Her head perked up at the squeaking sound of the cupboard below her. Shaking her head, she rinsed her hand and wiped Chan’s face with her damp hand. He was bewildered, tilted his head and gave a questioning look to her.

“I don’t want to see your face stained with pain.”  

“Thank you, little flora” 

They continued the half-done work, comforting silence took over when a smile was exchanged between them. The silence reminded Chan of how much Y/N had grown up. Ecstatic shouts would accompany their cooking or tea session, there was some other time when the clattering of the fallen bowl rang throughout the small kitchen area, and Chan would be panicked, thinking she’d slipped. Watching her doing everything by herself, a sense of pride concealed him.

She brought the two cups to the desk, while Chan picked some books out of the brittle shelf for them. Setting the cups down, she saw a tiny figure with wings leaning against the jar of cookies, one of them nibbling the sugar cube that slowly melted in his grasp. A speck of glittering gold dust scattered on the surface of the wood

“What are you looking at?” 

She pointed at the unknown creature, and Chan kneeled, leaning in to take a clearer view of the creature, only to sigh.

“Taehyun, Beomgyu, what are you doing?”

The blonde one grinned.

“They want to join us. If that’s okay with you” Chan turned at her, a stack of books halfway blocking his vision.

“Of course! You say it before, having extra company will be fun.” The brunette fairy’s cheek turned chubby at the reply, and a broad smile crept up on his face. She couldn’t bite back a smile.

Chan handed her a book after they sat across from each other. Now, Chan realised how many years had passed with her. It was a familiar setting but with a grown-up little flora and a never-aged man, that was him. The shout of the owl had subsided by the time they closed the book and began sharing their old story. The little ancient cottage lit up with their laughter and giggling again. Nothing is more comforting after devastation than doing something you love with your beloved. The clock had passed midnight, and Beomgyu had fallen asleep on Taehyun’s lap. Beomgyu’s lips were coated with sugar that Taehyun had to wipe off with his sleeve. Her lid became heavy, past a point that she couldn’t keep her head from slumping. 

“Let’s head to sleep, little flora. You could have told me you’re sleepy.” Chan stood up, arm draping her shoulder, leading her to his bedroom. 

“Chan…” 

He stopped and glanced at her, allowing her to continue. She collided her body with Chan’s tough one, wrapping her arm around his waist. 

“I love you and thank you for these 10 years. I’m grateful that fate let us meet. Goodnight.”  She pulled herself away and shut the door behind her. 

Her words roamed around his mind, practically leaving him frozen on the spot. An unknown emotion dominated him. Was it ecstatic? Or was it heartwarming? The last time he felt this was before his mother’s death, it was the last he told himself. Hearing those again, he wanted to shed tears all over again.  Despite his hideous and terrifying black wings, he admits he’s a soft-hearted man.

Sometimes all one needed was sincere words to make them feel appreciated. 

“Maybe Beomgyu was right and I was too fed to myself to agree with him” Chan snapped his head toward the voice, coming eye to eye with Taehyun. 

“But I'm sticking with my idea. Don’t you think it much safer living under Duncan’s protection?”

“And allowing myself to crush into a bottomless pit? I can’t face that again, Taehyun.”

“I know you will answer that. Then I’m going to be your guardian angel now.” Taehyun chuckled and Chan shook his head, disagreeing with Taehyun’s idea. Taking care of him when they first met was risky enough. Taehyun shouldn’t have left him alone, die or alive, he should stop caring about him. The blonde had done well and Chan didn’t know how to repay him for his kindness if he did accept his offer. 

“I’m not giving you an option, Chan. I’m grateful enough you’re still alive today”

“Don’t–”

“I risked my life when I met you. Protecting you from the king is far away from difficult.”

“Fine…but if things get out of your hand, leave me alone” He uttered firmly

Taehyun nodded and approached Chan. He squatted down to Chan’s leg, hovering his hand above Chan’s wound. A beaming light spread through his hand. After a while, Taehyun retreated his palm and got back on his feet.

“I’m heading home. I can’t let anything disturb Beomgyu’s sleep. Goodnight chan”

"the world is cruel, but I still love you" | H.Hyunjin & Y.Jeongin

pairing: Hyunjin x Jeongin x fem!reader (skz x attack on titan au) word count: 2.9k words genre/s: slightly angst, fluff Summary: one month after the rumbling, everything started to return to normal. warning: there's a major spoiler of the ending here, death, alcohol, slight cursing, and too many references from aot a/n: I apologize for any grammar mistakes. Other than that, enjoy! I also write this just for fun. This event happened before Armin and the others returned to Paradis to tell their story. (I might or might not do a mood board for this story, tell me if you want one) Eren - Hyunjin, Mikasa - reader, Armin - Jeongin, Levi - Minho, Jean - Changbin, Conny - Felix, Hange - Jisung, Pieck - Seungmin, Erwin - Chan

He glanced ahead, and tears began forming on the edge of his eyes. He fell to his knee, his hand clenching the sand around him as a screeching scream broke out. Tears poured down, creating thousands of dots under him. Despite the strong burning mist swirling around him, he witnessed uncountable bodies being flattened by the titan’s feet and small silhouettes running away from the creatures he’d called out, their cries pierced through Hyunjin’s ear. He covered his ear as his heart pounded louder in his chest, he never wanted this. He just wanted to see the other side of the sea, and what living there would be like. 

What had he done? From the day he was born, special wasn’t something fitting for him. With such power, he’d destroyed everything from the beginning. How could the island believe in him? How could the scouts believe in him? 

Why did the Titans exist in the first place? He wouldn't have suffered in this hell if it weren’t for them. His mother, His father, Uncle Hannes, Captain Chan, Shasha and everyone else wouldn’t have died.

Flames slowly devoured his hand and his grasp on his ear tightened until he felt something slipping through his finger.

“Hyunjin!”

“Y/N?? Jeongin??” His heart called out desperately, praying you would engulf him in your warmth again.

He blinked and his breath subsided to its normal tempo when he realised everything he saw was a figment of his overheated imagination, no it was rather a memory he’d live with now. The trauma stayed with him no matter how hard Jeongin tried to soothe him. It was easier to say than to be done. He exhaled a deep breath dripping with relief. 

He folded his eyes as he shifted his weight over his arm, head facing the vastness of the universe. The night’s air filled his lungs and the sounds of dancing grass around him rang in his ear, bringing a sense of peacefulness to him. Peace – how long had he been searching for this? He sacrificed everything and killed half of the human population for the sake of freedom outside of the walls – for the sake of his friend’s happiness and safety. It doesn’t include that he nearly lost himself in the war, if he did, what would happen to them? To Jeongin? To you?

“Hyunjin! Stop wandering out alone!” Somebody shouted, voice cracking and he heard heavy footsteps swiftly approaching him.

He opened his eyes and rapidly stood up. He was perching on the cliff that led to a camp placing all the survivors from the rumbling a month ago, so his action almost caused him to fall. You arrived in front of him, worry displayed on your countenance. Hyunjin’s heart wrenched in guilt as he took in your creased eyebrows and eyes brimming with crystal tears. It was the same expression he saw when he lied to you and Jeongin for the first time. 

“I’m sorry, Y/N. I just want to clear my head from the memory.” He beamed a tender smile at you and fixed the loose scarf around your neck properly when the breeze blew over. 

“Taking off alone without telling the scouts isn’t a good idea either. Although there are no Titans, there are still enemies. I can’t bear thinking of living without you and Jeongin.” You clenched the scarf as tears escaped. He stepped forward and hugged you, letting you cry in his chest. His hand caressed your hair and rested his other hand on your waist. 

“I’m sorry for being such an asshole. I’m sorry for making you and Jeongin worry. I’m sorry–” He pulled you closer to his body.

“For everything, Y/N.”

“Hyunjin! Y/N! There you are!” A blonde-haired male jumped onto them, and a few giddy giggles escaped his lips. Hyunjin released his hand from your hair and wrapped it around the male’s shoulder to balance himself. You hastily wiped the tears from your cheeks before the latter noticed.

“You cried?! What happened!? Did Hyunjin say something mean to you again?”Jeongin asked and he narrowed his eyes at Hyunjin, gaze piercing through Hyunjin’s eyes. Hyunjin gulped out of fear while shaking his head vigorously.

“He didn’t. I feel overwhelmed to see him, that’s all. I’m fine, Jeongin!” You released yourself from the hug and snapped your head to the side, hearing the other scouts shouting Hyunjin’s name. 

“Hey, what are you doing, Hyunjin!?” Changbin scowled and carefully climbed his way up to the trio's side. Felix trailed behind him, waving his hand toward them.

“Oh! You guys made it just in time!” Someone exclaimed, causing everyone to recoil. Changbin had his arm up to defend his face while the sudden greeting stiffened other’s shoulders. Only you remained composed and faced the voice’s owner.

“Onyankopon! It’s great to see you” 

Onyankopon raised the tray in his hand that held two cups of what seemed to contain tea, a slight grin on his face. The other stood on their toes to see what the male had brought with him. Changbin rushed to him, hooking his arm on Onyankopon’s neck while dragging him to the tarp site.

“Let’s get high tonight, buddy!” Changbin screamed in delight, receiving a shake from Felix. Felix glanced at Jeongin, cursing Changbin’s behaviour under his breath before pulling Jeongin with him, and running after Changbin.

“Changbin, don’t be an idiot!” Felix groaned. You and Hyunjin exchanged a look. You quickly diverted your attention to the tarp site and parted away, burying your cheeks that began heating up in the scarf. Hyunjin chortled and chased you, swiftly intertwining his hand with yours when he arrived by your side.

“That’s so not you, Y/N. Why are you running away?” Hyunjin teased, attempting to test the water yet you kept your head to the side, giving no chance to Hyunjin to observe your flushed cheeks. After minutes of silence that emitted an answer, he hummed in understanding and swung your hands while approaching Onyankopon’s tarp. The place was brimming with oil lamps from each tarp. The lamps were the sole light source in Marley for the time being, other sources had turned into ashes. 

As you descend further, delightful giggles echo in your ear. You halted and your finger released itself from Hyunjin’s. You spun to the source and saw a familiar scene across from you. Three kids -- 2 boys and a girl, were standing by an imaginary start line. The boy with black hair grinned at his two other friends and ran to the tree opposite them before the blonde-haired boy finished his countdown. That boy seemed so much shorter than them, like Jeongin. The girl fastened her pace, leaving the short boy struggling to keep up with their speed. 

Their clothes blew in the gentle night breeze. As expected, the black-haired boy arrived first with a winning fist high in the air, his chest raising rapidly as he regained his breath. The girl came in second and the last one was the smallest out of them all. They had their hands resting on the tree, exchanging wide smiles. The blonde-haired boy quickly scolded the other boy for not keeping his promise.

And then, they glanced at you. Your breath hitched in your throat as realisation sunk in. They were you, Hyunjin and Jeongin. You felt tears threatening to build again only to stop when a gentle hand grasped your shoulder. You peeked behind you – it was Jeongin.

“What are you watching? Everyone is waiting for you” 

You looked back at the field and there was no one there. Was it your imagination?

“Are you okay, Y/N?” Jeongin shook your shoulder, noticing you were taken aback by what you saw earlier.

“Oh– I’m okay. Let’s go”

You and Jeongin arrived at Onyankopon’s tarp and Changbin had already begun feasting on the meal that Onyankopon had prepared for the scouts. You sat beside Hyunjin and Jeongin settled beside you. He took a glass filled to the brim, chugging the content in one go. He hummed in satisfaction before handing the glass to Felix, asking for more.

You took a slice of cake and put it on Hyunjin’s plate. He tilted his head at you.

“You need a lot of food to recover, Hyunjin. You have to eat and stay alive.”

“Recover from what? I didn’t hurt myself–” You shoved the cake into his mouth before he could fully reply to you. His cheeks were chubby due to the cake yet he tried hard to complete his sentence, causing you to giggle at his vain attempt. Your laugh brought ease to Hyunjin’s heart. Did he deserve to make you happy like you are right now?

The night went on and the tent slowly turned messy after a drunk Changbin challenged Felix to a wrestling battle while Jeongin invited other survivors to join them for their small dinner. Loud laughter and chatter replenished the silent night until past midnight when most of them had passed out from consuming too many foods and drinks as if there were no tomorrow. 

Minho raised his lantern to his chest as his face furrowed in disapproval. The tent was dark, what a hassle to search for them.

“Shit, this is much worse than the previous one.” He scowled and pushed his wheelchair deeper into the tarp and his nose scrunched up at the reeked alcohol and the smell of food wastes mingling in the air. He moved the lantern to his side. All of his scouts were there, scattered in the corner. 

“Damn, these kids never give us a break don’t they, captain?” Someone cooed beside Minho and he whipped his head to his side, eyes widened. Out of his consciousness, his body jolted to his right, making him lose balance but that figure quickly grabbed his arm. 

“What the hell are you doing here, four-eyes freak?”

“Hey, that’s not how you greet your dearest friend, Minho. It shouldn't have been a little nice. Say, didn’t you miss me?” 

“I'd rather burn in hell than say that to you, Jisung.”

Jisung booed him and looked at the kids. His cheeky grin fell into a thin line. “How is he doing? Is he coping everything well?”

Minho trailed his gaze to Jisung’s direction. Hyunjin was sleeping between you and Jeongin, his arms wrapped securely on your and Jeongin’s shoulder. Minho shrugged his shoulder and kicked Changbin’s leg that was under him.

“Enough with the small talk. Help me carry the kids to the ship.”

“Did you miss Jisung that much?” 

Minho raised his head and met with Seungmin. Up until today, Seungmin had a hard time deciphering Minho’s emotions but currently, he could see devastation and confusion written on his face. Minho sighed and massaged his temple. He imagined about Jisung again.

“Am I going insane like Hyunjin did before the rumbling? That moron is getting into my head.”

“It’s not a sin to admit you miss someone. You had to sacrifice many souls to be here today, those souls including your friends. I miss my friends too. My dad said missing someone means you keep them in your heart.” Seungmin uttered softly and flashed a small smile to Minho.

“I’m still pissed off, cart head. You are the only reason I couldn’t kill Zeke in our first encounter”

Seungmin chuckled “Come on, captain! Leave the past behind, I don’t possess the cart-titan ability anymore. Besides, you still manage to kill Zeke.”

Their conversation died down when Onyankopon approached them. He gasped when he registered the view in front of him. 

“I’m sorry!! I think I might give them too much drink” He grinned, rubbing the back of his neck as his face reddened. Seungmin waved his apology off, saying it was fine for them to have fun.

“Let’s get them onto the ship. We are going to Paradis tonight”

“Why not stay here for the night?” Onyankopon asked

“I don’t want to disturb anyone with our presence”

-----

Hyunjin woke up from his deep slumber. He sat while cradling his aching head. His head begged him to go back to sleep but his heart wanted the otherwise. He observed his new surroundings. The room was small with a bunk bed and a low light shone through the window. Oh, he was on a ship?

He carefully climbed down from his bed and noticed you were sleeping under him. He leaned in and the moonlight slipped in, helping him to see your face. He admired how soft your features were when you were sleeping but it was the opposite when you were awake. He tugged the stray hairs behind your ear before kissing your forehead. He exited the room and walked to the ship’s deck, resting his arm against the railing.

Meanwhile, you jolted from your sleep and panicked when Hyunjin was nowhere to be seen. You got out of your bed and rushed outside of the room. A sigh of relief escaped after you saw Hyunjin chilling on the deck. You approached him.

“I thought you were my other figment” You mumbled

“Y/N, I’m alive and standing in front of you. You’re not dreaming”

“I know but it’s difficult to believe it. I sliced your head off and I swear I didn’t feel any breathing coming from you. I held your head in my palm, Hyunjin. It doesn’t make any sense.”

Hyunjin faced you and gently held your arm.

“We live in a life where nothing makes sense”

“But how are you alive now?”

“I guess Ymir had a change of heart because of you. She needs proof that someone like her doesn’t exist. After 2000 years, you appeared. Maybe she doesn’t want someone else to experience what she did thus she brought me back to life. We'll never know her intention, Y/N.”

“Mhmmm, something is missing. Where’s your scarf?”

You just realised your neck felt exposed to the wind. Hyunjin immediately went to the room and returned with the red scarf that once belonged to him. He wrapped the scarf around you and smiled. 

“Thank you for wrapping this scarf around me, Hyunjin,” You said, words lacing with sincerity from the deepest part of your heart while tugging the scarf down to your chin.

“I would wrap it around you as many as you want, now and forever” 

You nodded and reached for his long hair that began covering his eyes, caressing his hair tenderly. “Your hair is getting longer. Can I cut it?”

His eyes glimmered in excitement as he pulled a pair of scissors from his pocket. “I was thinking the same too! That’s why I bring the scissors with me.”

He handed the item and sat on the floor, facing the sea. His feet bounced as a child would when they got their favourite toy. You kneeled behind him and started to cut his hair. 

“I adore you a lot, Y/N. I love you” He muttered. He hid his face into his knee, embarrassed by how he blurred that precious word easily. His face felt hot against his skin when he realised you probably didn’t hear his confession. 

“Raise your head!” 

“Sorry madam!” He returned to his original position, pressing his lips to appear calm despite his reddish face. You grabbed a handful of his hair and ran the sharp edge through his hair.

“Do you remember when you said to throw away this scarf when you die?”

He hummed “That is the best way to forget me”

You set the scissors on the floor and cleaned the remaining hair on his collar.

“You really had the guts to say that. Why would I forget you?”

“I’m a child of evil, I’m a monster. A monster doesn’t deserve apologies moreover to be in someone’s memories. Everyone should forget me.”

“No, you’re a victim…”

Loud footsteps echoed behind you and before you could identify the silhouette, Hyunjin had fallen to the floor with someone clinging to his neck, hugging him tightly.

“I thought I was dreaming!” Jeongin sniffed on Hyunjin’s shoulder. His body trembled as another cry was let out. Hyunjin chuckled and ruffled his hair.

 “You’re not, innie! I’m here with both of you!”

Hyunjin’s gaze softened as he rubbed the tears off with the back of his hand. Jeongin retreated and helped Hyunjin to sit. He sniffed for the last time and erased the stain on his face using his sleeve. 

“I’m glad we could witness the sea together properly” His eyes were shut as he smiled widely at you and Hyunjin. You couldn’t help but follow his action. 

“No matter how far you look, it stretches past the horizon” You can truly admit that the real Hyunjin has returned. The three of you finally reunited again, which couldn’t make you any happier. To live with them in peace; was Hyunjin’s wish for the longest time.

“I love you guys, thank you for not giving up! Oh, Y/N. Did you know that Hyunjin is afraid of you living with another man other than him?” Jeongin grinned and Hyunjin’s face turned even redder at the statement. 

“Innie! Don’t tell her!”

“I have another one!”

“No! Just shut your damn mouth!”

Behind a closed door, someone leaned on the wall, silently listening to the trio’s conversation. 

“Chan, Jisung if you’re listening, Hyunjin will be fine with them. I’m not saying this so you could rest in peace, but I’m sure of it. That idiot wouldn’t pull anything as long as Y/N and Jeongin are safe”

Minho placed a clenched fist on his heart as he saw figments of Jisung and Chan ahead of him.

“Thank you for everything, captain”

carry you

seungmin x fem!reader

genre: angst, fluff

content warnings: just angsty, smile insecurity, mention of hate comments

word count: 1.3k

summary: at a low point, seungmin finds out how much reader has been supporting him, no matter what. it fills him with a warmth that is nearly searing him from the inside, but he would have it no other way.

requested: @skzoologist

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Being an idol, Seungmin knew that he was bound to get hate, he wasn't stupid. However, when a part of him that was so natural, so pure, began to be picked apart by malicious commenters on the internet, there was no way he could control the way his brain believed it was true.

Why was it so wrong for him to smile when something made him happy? Why was it met with disgust when he simply smiled at something that made him laugh? Joy came to Seungmin just as easy as it was filling his lungs with air. It didn't matter what it was, whether he was messing around with his members or spending time hanging out with his best friend, he felt the muscles in his face twitch and his lips quirk upwards. But now, it was just as easy for his hand to instinctively cover the bottom half of his face, and it was much harder to avoid that feeling of suffocating.

Tears slowly raced down Seungmin's cheeks, fighting their way to be the first one to land on his phone screen displaying a multitude of hateful comments. The guy couldn't help himself. He purposefully searched his name, the word 'smile' and the word 'ugly' to have his new insecurity reaffirmed to him. In a sick and twisted way, he now needed validation to himself that the development of what he saw as a fault, was still circulating the internet by accounts that claimed themselves to be a stay. A part of him wished that someone could take it all away. He felt as if he had been doing so well in growing his confidence over the years of being in Stray Kids, yet he fell hook, line and sinker to just one person pointing out something about his appearance. And now, he couldn't get enough of it.

He was sat alone, curled up in the lounge of his best friend's apartment whilst she went to change into comfy clothes, or do her nighttime routine, something like that. Seungmin couldn't remember. His mind was elsewhere. Different to how he usually acted, when he'd succumb to the plush grey cushions on the luxurious sofa and end up falling asleep, he was instead fixated on the blue light from his device.

"Hey Mong-Mong," his best friend grinned as she curled up on the other end of her sofa, mirroring him close enough but not fully.

"Hey loser," Seungmin joked as he pretended to yawn for an excuse to wipe his eyes and have his face a bit red.

"You alright?" she asked in concern, acting different from her usual feisty self of fighting back against his comments.

She was always there to support him. From when he was a trainee, experiencing his first win at Music Bank, to celebrating his achievements overseas too, like when he went to the Met Gala. His best friend was always there, whether it was physically, in spirit or through an uncharacteristically cute message through text. She was a hype woman at heart, really.

"Yeah, just tired. It's so hard being an idol," Seungmin fake chuckled, removing his hands from his face yet pulling at the toggles of his hoodie to scrunch the fabric around his face more.

There was certainly some truth in that statement.

"Did Chan tell you off for calling him old again?" she smirked at him, kicking his foot til he made a sound of annoyance.

"Yah! Who's side are you on?"

His side. She always was. With valiant effort she was sure she could pull him back to the brighter side of life, so he was able to shine again, and his smile too. She wasn't oblivious. As someone who was chronically online, she was very well versed in being a Stay, and had seen other true fans upset about what they heard about Seungmin from antis, and also from how they'd seen it affect him. So, gradually, she tried to boost his mood, easing in comments about his smile amongst many other compliments she'd give him.

"I'm so jealous, Puppy. Your skin is glowing, the hair is hairing and the teeth are shining. Tell me your secrets and Jeongin doesn't have to get hurt!"

Ok so maybe she did threaten to take a pair of scissors to her Jeongin photo card, but it got a laugh out of him, even if it caused her great pain to hold a precious item at ransom.

It was later, instead of sooner, that Seungmin felt a change within himself. He felt lighter, warmer, happier. Although his bad habit had not completely stopped, he felt himself reaching out for his phone for a bedtime scroll less and less. That was all because she was there to help him not care. She really did carry him out of his hateful thoughts.

"You take care of yourself so well, look at how you've done your hair today, bright smile as always, and look at the fittttt!" she boasted about her best friend, to her best friend, standing up in front of his nonchalant form that was once again, right at home on her sofa.

She should give him a spare key at this rate.

"You want something," Seungmin rose and eyebrow in suspicion at her cheeky smile.

"Nope. No. No I don't. Why you lying Seungmin? I know you're lying," she nearly pressed her face up right against his as she theatrically and drastically changed her tone.

"Don't gaslight me," Seungmin groaned, shutting his eyes and pushing her away by her forehead.

"I would never do that," she smiled sweetly, dumping herself on the sofa.

"Stoppp! You want something, I swear," Seungmin smiled slightly, shaking his head at her antics.

"I just want my Seungminnie happy all the time," she pinched his cheeks, and just for fun she threw a little bit of aegyo in there to really harness a bigger reaction.

"First of all, never do that again. Like, seriously... that was gross. Second of all, you're asking a lot there," he leant his head back on the sofa, feeling exasperated yet humoured at the same time.

"I am. But I like seeing it. That cute smile-!" she moved quickly to pinch his cheeks again but he swatted her away.

"Noona!" Seungmin whined, still holding his arms out in front of him in pure defense.

"Aish, I'm literally a year older than you don't call me that," she shivered.

"You act just like my noona," Seungmin sighed through his nostrils.

"Hmm your noona seems smart. I miss her. I haven't seen her in ages. Maybe she'll be my new bestie," she teased him.

Seungmin laughed in disbelief, gaining a moment of peace when he saw her go quiet and just admire his face.

"Ahhh I knew it!!!" Seungmin lifted off of his seat, pointing at her in what she supposed was elation.

"Hmm? Oh you know something? That's really shocked me," she taunted him.

"Shut up, pabo. You've been trying to make me laugh this whole time!" Seungmin clapped his hands as he explained his thoughts out loud.

"Yes. And I won. Oh stays will love me so much," she started shimmying, a weird little celebration dance but Seungmin loved it nevertheless.

"Stays would think you're a nuisance," Seungmin kicked her leg lightly with a louder laugh, playfully raising his fists and pretending to try and box her.

She had been there the whole time lifting his spirits. He didn't have to bluntly say it then and there but there was a mutual understanding that she had done all she could to get him to smile and realise the beauty in such a simple thing. It was sad that people had stopped him but she had worked hard against that and was successful in the mean time.

And so the world saw the beauty in him again, that she had seen all along.

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tagged: @skz-streamer @kiraisastay @hannahhbahng @kpopmenace143 @sakufilms @arloo00 @dunno-wut-to-do @splat00z @cheesemonky @his-angell @2minstan @skzoologist @leonchansblog26 @atinyniki @writingforstraykids @minholing @lilmisssona @astraysimp @lixie-phoria @michelle4eve @linoalwaysknows @royal-shinigami @jolly0789 @turtledove824 @yangbbokari

within the forest | chapter 6

pairing: fairy!Chan x princess!reader word count: 1.6k words summary: another day with Chan but someone seemed displeased with your decision. a/n: posting this while waiting for my food which took longer than I expected...btw, hope you have a wonderful day today!!

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“Come on! You will miss the sun kiss, Chan!” She ran to him, helping him carry one of the easels. Chan let a smile dominate his lips as he quickened his pace toward their painting place for today - his mother’s favourite place. While positioning the easel, he caught her spinning around the meadow - hands spread widely and her sky-blue skirt billowing. Her brown lock shone under the golden afternoon light - her eyes reflected it.

His action died down in an instant. He twirled his hand in a motion. Flowers around her bloomed after a wave of yellow dust flew across them. She seems more like a fairy than himself - glowing under the sunlight and with a beaming smile. He called out her name.

“You got entertained easily, little flora”  He ruffled her brown hair gently as she glanced up. Rosy cheeks and a broader smile plastered for him to witness. Under his touch, she still felt like the little girl he had met. It doesn’t matter if she ages up, she always would be Chan’s little flora. His flora that he would protect and care for until the end.

“We don’t live forever, Chan. So, I make sure every moment spent is exhilarating.”

“I’m glad you have that mindset. Should we start our painting session, Your Highness?” He offered his hand. She placed her hand on top of his palm - playing along. The easels were backing each other so there was no space for peeking at the other’s artwork. Beside the easels, a table stood with a colour palette and a plate of creampuff. 3 stems of purple lilac were on the plate.

“One question before we start. Why did you place the easels like this?”

“I want to keep our artwork as a surprise for each other. We’ll reveal it on my birthday”

“Whatever makes you happy, channie”

Silence took over when their hands reached for the palette and brush. The low sound from the caressing brushes was barely heard because they thought deeply about what to draw. The first stroke - your first action - will determine the outcome. 

Hours passed and the drawing began to take shape. Chan tilted his head to check up on her. With a brush on her right hand, she carefully placed black paint onto her canvas. Her eyebrows furrowed in concentration before continuing to paint. She probably didn’t realise the smeared purple paint on her cheeks. He kept quiet because she was adorable with it.

“I have never seen you in a full dress before” 

“I’m not really into dresses. It limited my steps and most of my dresses were only for special occasions so I can’t wear them daily,” she replied, not sparing any glances at Chan.

“What a bummer…” he sighed and faced the canvas. He peeked at her once again before painting the features on his drawing. 

“You would look lovely and exquisite in one, little flora"

“If you are that eager, how about you be my stepbrother?” she chuckled but deep inside, she meant it. If Chan were her brother, nothing would stop their relationship - they could have fun daily without anyone judging glare.

“I would scare everyone in the palace with my hideous wings then”

“What are you blabbering about, Chan?” She set the brush away and approached him. She ran her fingers through his wings. Despite what he said, she was always fond of his wings - it was the part of him that made him special. Chan stood up and pulled her into a hug as a gesture of thank you. Parting away, the breeze blew his dark hair along the sudden ‘thud’ behind them was heard. An arrow bulged on the side of Chan’s canvas that had fallen to the grass. 

Chan yanked the arrow and untangled the tight-up paper on its shaft. Ripping the paper, a single line of words was written in red ink. He crumbled the paper and grabbed her hand. His indecipherable face caused curiosity to crawl into her. 

“You need to return now, little flora. They found me” he said, voice oddly calm.  

“Who did?”

“Them. Meet you tomorrow, safe ride” He closed his eyes as black feathers began consuming her. She vanished when the feather turned into dust. Chan eyed the canvas, a contemplating sigh escape. He twirled his finger and all of the equipment entered his cottage. He unfolded his palm, the paper uncrumpled, revealing the sentence - the bigger threat is coming, better watch out.

The strong light blinded her as she sat up, pondering while looking around. Open flower fields filled with her mother's favourites. Why is she here? Why did Chan send her back? Despite the strong light, she could make out a silhouette at the gazebo far away - a fully dressed woman, rushing toward her. 

“Flora? Where have you been?!” 

Oh, it was her mother, face worrying than ever. Her mother helped her stand up. 

“I was walking around, reliving my childhood. You don’t have to worry, Mother”

“How couldn’t I? I asked anyone about your whereabouts and nobody saw you!” 

She took her mother’s hand into hers, lips resting into a tender smile. Sometimes chasing her freedom, she forgot the one who allowed her to experience it - her mother. Was it a selfish act? Lying to her queen to save Chan and herself from being punished? Her grip tightened, yet careful so she didn’t hurt her.

“I’m sorry, mother.” 

“Let’s go inside. Father and Seungmin must be waiting for me” Her mother nodded and they went inside the palace. 

[later that night]

He threw the paper into the forked flame of the fireplace, watching it crumble into pieces and turn into ashes. His eyes were shut when a line of memory hit him, returning him to the past he wanted to forget. His wings wrapped around him as if they were comforting him. The scar that stretched across his right wing was visible under the fire. 

“Did the fire remind you of that accident?” A deep, familiar voice spoke out from behind the chair.

“What are you doing here, Duncan?” He asked, clearly unwelcoming the guest of the night. A figure lurked out of the shadow - a tall man with a pair of wings similar to Chan. His wrinkly face was wearing a sinister grin, it was more like a mocking grin the more Chan stared at it. A modern suit fitted him, an expensive suit for a man like him. He must be out on another hunting. 

“I heard from Minho that you made a new friend. The Stelious Princess, wasn’t it? What a decision when you’re on the verge of death. The king already had threatened you”

Chan faced him “You would tell me that if you have an offer to make. Stop beating around bushes.”

Duncan chuckled “Work with us again and I’ll guarantee your safety. Besides, could you bear your siblings mourning over your death?”

Chan’s face remains stoic although Duncan’s words twisted his inside. Imagining it was enough to terrify him. 

“Say yes, chan. You aren’t risking your life for a stranger” Duncan extended his hand in an inviting gesture, unfolded palm shoved in front of Chan. Chan wanted to take his hand but he stopped when a screeching scream rang in his ear. He hesitated, hand hovering over Duncan’s.

A train of memory winded in his head, and his hand instantly retreated. He questioned himself - do you want to experience the pain again? Do you want to be called a betrayer again?

“Your offer was sincere, Duncan but I say no. I can handle the king by myself”

“Minho will continue working with you. I’m not capable of it” 

Duncan scoffed, turning around. “Then, all the best. I’ll be there if you change your mind” 

"We'll see how far you will go for that girl"

Outside the cottage, two fairies watched Chan through the window. They couldn’t understand their discussion due to the distance they were in. The brunette fairy stood on the branches, holding the trunk to balance himself on the thin branch. He huffed. The forest was cornered with huge black thorns that grew from the ground. It will be difficult for someone to barge into the forest now.

“That fairy caged us in here, Taehyun!” He sulked while he nibbled his sugar cube.

“It’s for our safety as well, Beomgyu. The king will kill us if he sees us”

“But…”

“Another sulking from you and I’ll throw all of your sugar cubes, gyu”

“Fine!”

Her footsteps rang loudly in her ear as she headed toward her bedroom. The dim light from the candle in the hallway did less to brighten her path. As she took a step, the guilt from the dept of her heart escaped as the image of her mother flashed in her mind. How could she neglect her duty as a good daughter to her mother? Why did she realised it now?

“Make up your mind, Gale! Kill the fairy or I’ll execute your son!”

Her steps halted as well as her breath. She glanced beside her, instantly stepping back when she noticed it was the King’s office. The shadow on the floor shows how the king was grasping his hair in frustration. 

“Locate the dark fairy. We’ll attack him as fast as possible. As long as he’s alive, our people’s safety is at risk”

She covered her mouth with her hand as a gasp was let out. She hears her father’s words, nice and clear. Her heart dropped to the pit of his stomach at the realisation. Her father was the one who sent the arrow. She ran to her bedroom, slamming the door behind her. 

Both males in the room jolted at the slam. The king felt unease so he perked his head outside his room. Only the night wind greeted him, causing his shoulder to slump forward. He was being paranoid for nothing. He slowly closed the door behind him.

“What was that, Your Highness?”

“I’m not sure”

“I hope it wasn’t Flora”

🥹🥹🥹🥹

Wish you back: nine

Ex!Seo Changbin x sick!reader

Summary: you and Changbin have been off and on for years, and even though he knows he's made countless mistakes, he can't figure out why you're so set on staying apart this time. Can he get you back if you aren't you anymore?

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